He added that two Chinese vessels, one from the Fisheries Law
Enforcement Command and a maritime surveillance ship, remained at the
shoal, which the Philippines also calls Bajo de Masinloc.

The Philippines and China have been engaged in a standoff over
Scarborough since April, when the Navy flagship BRP Gregorio del Pilar
intercepted Chinese fishing boats laden with contraband marine products.

Gazmin said the inclement weather has made it difficult for Philippine ships and boats to go to Scarborough.

The Defense chief said there is a need to resolve the latest situation.

"Pine-prevent tayo makapasok because kine-claim nila kanila, kine-claim din natin na atin, kaya kailangan mag-usap para mabigyang kalutasan ito (They
are preventing us from entering because they claim the area, we claim
it too, so we should talk and find a solution to this)," Gazmin said.